A fresh hostility claimed the lives of two persons and destroyed property worth millions of naira in lkachi village, Akparata, Effium in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi state.

It was learnt that those killed were beheaded, seven people were kidnapped and five houses were completely burnt down.

President-general of Effium community, Dr James Agena, claimed the attackers, suspected to be Ezza warriors, struck the village in the early morning of Sunday.

His claims on the identity of the attackers could not be independently verified.

His statement reads: “I write to put you on notice that this morning at about 3 am, (alleged) Ezza warriors attacked Ikachi village in the Akparata area of Effium, resulting in the killing and beheading of two men. Seven Effium natives were abducted (5 women and 2 men). A total of twelve people sustained gunshot wounds, while five houses were burnt down.

“The deceased are Obinna Aje, 19, and Ogenyi Abowu, 78. This latest attack is in addition to the (alleged) Ezza warriors’ attack on Effium Urban last Sunday, the 12th day of May 2024, where one Mrs. Cecelia Omah was killed and her head severed also.

“This is an attack too many on the peace-loving people of Effium. I call on the government of Ebonyi state and the security agencies to promptly arrest and prosecute all those involved in the genocidal act.

“This is equally coming on the heels of an invitation by the new peace committee on Tuesday, the 21st of May 2024, for the reading of the government’s White Paper on the Effium crisis to the two warring factions.”

The crisis, which started in 2021, has claimed many lives, displaced many and caused the destruction of property worth billions of naira.

Police spokesperson, Ukandu Joshua confirmed the incident.

He said the command is aware of the attack and has launched an investigation into the matter.

He noted that the Effium axis is a war zone, which everyone is aware of and where anything could happen.

He also noted that there is a detachment of military and two mobile police units stationed in the crisis area and they have done well in safeguarding the area.

END.